The best emergency preparedness supplies in 2024

This multi-use radio, flashlight, and SOS alarm is a must-have emergency kit item. No matter the situation you might be in, this radio will work. It can be powered in three ways: solar, hand crank, and rechargeable battery.

It provides access to AM/FM radio stations and features NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) emergency broadcasts. The RunningSnail radio also has a USB port for device charging.

We tested several options for our guide to the best flashlights, but they all rely on battery power. Batteries are generally reliable (especially if you have a big pack stored, like the one we recommend below). Still, we think it's worthwhile to choose a model for your emergency kit that doesn't rely on batteries, like this three-LED bulb flashlight powered by solar energy and hand-crank technology. One minute of cranking will get you 80 minutes of light.

Additionally, the ThorFire flashlight has a built-in carabiner clip so that you can attach it to the outside of a backpack for easy access and solar-charging.

Made by the same brand as our top best roadside emergency car kit pick, these Mylar thermal blankets are designed to retain up to 90% of body heat and are waterproof, windproof, and moisture-proof. They can also be converted into emergency shelter tents if need be. Swiss Safe emergency blankets are also extremely lightweight and perfect for your mobile emergency kit.

This first aid kit comes in a compact carrying bag with clear plastic pockets that make everything visible for quick and easy access. Supplies include bandages, tapes, sponges, pads, sterilization wipes, gloves, and medical tools. With this compact kit, you'll have all your basic medical needs.

We also like the Monoki First Aid Survival Kit, a similar option that costs a bit less and has fewer pieces.

If you run out of clean water or find yourself without it, LifeStraw uses a microfiltration membrane to remove 99.9% of waterborne bacteria, parasites, and microplastics (as small as 1 micron). With proper use and maintenance, a LifeStraw can filter through 1,000 gallons of water.

Check out our full LifeStraw Personal Water Filter review.

This stainless steel army knife can serve 33 different functions, including, but not limited to, scissors, bottle opener, blade, screwdriver, and pliers. This compact tool can easily be carried in a backpack or pocket if you're on the go.

This Atomic Bear bracelet has several key features that will be useful if you find yourself lost in an unfamiliar area. Not only does it have a small compass on the clasp, but it also has an emergency whistle, a built-in flint fire starter, and a small emergency knife.

If you cut the bracelet itself, it unravels into 12 feet of military-grade paracord, and was recommended by Air Force survival specialist Jessie Krebs in her survival Masterclass.

Read our full Atomic Bear Paracord Survival Bracelet review.

Various emergencies can knock out power and telephone lines making it hard to communicate with members of your party should you need to separate for any reason. These two-way walkie-talkies use 16 pre-programmed frequencies to speak with one another for up to a 3-mile range.

Its batteries last on standby for 96 hours and can be recharged with any USB-compatible device. 

Energizer batteries are among the longest-lasting alkaline batteries on the market. They have a shelf life of 10 years and are leak-resistant for up to two years after being fully used. You can add these to your at-home survival kit and be confident they'll be ready should an emergency strike.

This double-thick adhesive tape is heavy-duty enough to stick to rough and uneven surfaces yet workable enough to be ripped by hand. Gorilla Tape is weather-resistant and can withstand moisture, UV rays, and extreme temperatures.

It's always a good idea to carry waterproof matches with you in case you need to start a fire in a damp area. This package contains 160 matches (four packs of 40 matches).

Though they're great for use in the rain or humid conditions, some users have had trouble getting them to light if submerged in water. Consider storing them in a waterproof container for extra peace of mind.

This respirator protects you from breathing in non-oil-based particles like fiberglass and sanding debris. A valve attached to the front of the mask allows for easy breathing and reduces heat and moisture. A simple mask like this could help protect your respiratory system if you're surrounded by significant debris.

It's always a good idea to keep non-perishables, like canned food that doesn't require cooking, in your kit. The American Red Cross suggests storing a three-day supply for evacuation and a two-week supply for home use for each member of your group.

This ready-to-eat food option has a shelf-life of 30 years and is designed for emergencies. The Mountain House 14-Day Emergency Food Supply Kit contains 84 servings (42 meals) of dried food to which you just add water. You can consume lasagna with beef sauce, noodles and chicken, breakfast skillets, and more directly out of the package in fewer than 10 minutes.

To accompany your non-perishable foods, the OXO can opener locks onto cans of all sizes with its stainless steel skip-proof feed wheel. It's simple and doesn't require electricity, so it's ideal for emergencies.

If you're looking for something even more compact for on-the-go can opening, check out the P-38 and P-51 Can Openers. They're a bit more difficult to use, but they fit on a keyring and can be used as a cutting blade or even a screwdriver in a pinch.

You can also check out our full guide to the best can openers.

Although we recommend adding LifeStraw to your at-home survival kit, you should always be prepared with clean drinking water. Stock up on gallons of water or pre-packaged bottles like this in your at-home kit.

The American Red Cross suggests storing one gallon per person per day. Plan on three days for your evacuation supply and two weeks for your at-home kit.

If you'd rather just buy a complete emergency kit and be done with it, the best we've tested is The Complete Earthquake Bag. It's an essential survival kit that can serve up to four people in the event of a hurricane, flood, earthquake, or other natural disaster.

It's housed in a wheeled duffle bag for portability and contains comprehensive emergency supplies, including water purification equipment, a 107-piece first aid kit, food bars, hygiene supplies, and a multi-function hand-crank flashlight that doubles as a radio and phone charger.

For something ready-made under $50, we recommend this one from Ready America. This emergency kit has notable omissions: no cutting tools, fire-starting equipment, or flashlight (only light sticks). Yet, the kit focuses on nutrition, protection from the elements, and hydration.

It supplies water and food rations for sustenance, a first aid kit for basic medical needs, and ponchos and emergency blankets for shelter. It has enough to keep two adults alive for three days.